The Best Road Trip Guide: Top Places to See When Driving From Astorga, Castilla y León to Ferrol, Galicia
Road trips are a great way to discover new places and make memories. They offer an adventure and a chance to explore some of the most beautiful locations in the world. If you are looking for an epic road trip in Spain, then look no further than the journey from Astorga, Castilla y León to Ferrol, Galicia. Stretching for over 340 miles through stunning countryside, the route provides endless possibilities for amazing adventures.
In this blog post, we have listed the best places to see and must-do activities to make your road trip experience more enjoyable. So, whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, here's our top list of places that you shouldn't miss.
Historical Wonders
Astorga Cathedral: Start your trip by exploring one of Astorga's most famous landmarks, the Cathedral of Santa Maria. Located in the heart of the city, this majestic cathedral was built in the 15th century and is an excellent example of Gothic architecture. Admire the impressive stone work, the intricate carvings, the imposing towers, and the beautiful stained glass windows.
Ponferrada Castle: Ponferrada Castle is a medieval fortress located in the town of Ponferrada. It was built in the 12th century by the Knights Templar to protect the pilgrims traveling on the Camino de Santiago. The castle has a fascinating history, and visitors can take a tour of the castle and learn about its past and its various occupants throughout history.
Tower of Hercules: Located on the coast of Galicia, the Tower of Hercules is a lighthouse that dates back to Roman times. It is the only working lighthouse in the world that has been active continuously since its construction. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy spectacular views of the sea.
Natural Delights
Las Médulas: Las Médulas is a unique and stunning natural landscape located in El Bierzo, Castilla y León. It is a former Roman gold-mining site and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The landscape is characterized by red clay mountains, deep gorges, and underground waterfalls. Visitors can explore the area on foot or by bike and discover its beauty.
Fragas do Eume: Fragas do Eume is a natural park located in the province of La Coruña, Galicia. It is a paradise for nature lovers, with its lush green forests, crystal-clear streams, and stunning waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy hiking and trekking along the park's many trails or rent a kayak to explore the River Eume.
Cabo Ortegal: Cape Ortegal is one of the most impressive natural landmarks on the Galician coast. Located in the town of Cariño, it offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can hike along the cliffs and explore the ancient lighthouses while admiring the spectacular scenery.
Gastronomic Delights
Asturian Cider Route: The Asturian Cider Route is a popular tourist attraction that traverses the countryside of Asturias. The route passes through many traditional cider-producing towns and offers visitors the chance to sample the famous Asturian cider and delicious local cuisine. Don't miss out on the experience of seeing cider poured the traditional way, held high above the glass.
Octopus in Melide: Melide is a charming town located in the province of La Coruña, Galicia, famous for its octopus dishes. The most traditional way to eat octopus in Melide is cold and with boiled potatoes on wooden plates called Bugallos. Don't miss out on the chance to try this local delicacy.
Lugo's Cocido: Cocido, a traditional Galician stew, is a hearty dish consisting of pork, chickpeas, and vegetables. Lugo is the gastronomic capital of Galicia and is famous for its cocido. Visitors can try this delectable stew in one of the many restaurants in the town.
Adventure Activities
Canoeing on the Miño River: The Miño River is the longest river in Galicia and an ideal spot for an adventure activity like canoeing. Visitors can paddle down the river and enjoy the stunning views of the Galician countryside.
Barranca Trail: This hiking trail is located in the Fragas do Eume natural park and offers visitors a challenging and exciting hike through the park's steep terrain. The trail offers spectacular views of the park's forests and waterfalls.
Camino de Santiago: The Camino de Santiago is a popular hiking trail that attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. The route stretches from France to Santiago de Compostela and takes pilgrims through stunning Spanish countryside. Even if you're not religious, the journey is one of personal growth and a chance to find peace and tranquility amidst nature; it's worth a shot to try it, even for a short distance.
Conclusion
The road trip from Astorga, Castilla y León to Ferrol, Galicia is one of the most scenic and unforgettable trips you can take in Spain, and the list above includes only a fraction of the region's many attractions. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, excellent gastronomy to outdoor adventures, this route has something for everyone.
Whether you're traveling solo, with family or friends, taking the time to explore everything that this region has to offer, will ensure that you come back with unforgettable memories. So, make sure to add these top places to your itinerary and enjoy a road trip adventure of a lifetime.